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Japanese history can be a lot of fun to explore, from the Sengoku era to the modernization of Japan in the Meiji Period. We’re sure everyone has their own favorite time period, but one that doesn’t always get the respect it deserves is the Heian Period. Lasting roughly from 794 to 1185, the period was a relatively peaceful time in Japan that saw a blossoming of culture in everything from literature to music.

Unfortunately, we can’t just hop on a plane and go back in time to see everything for ourselves. But there is a hotel in Shikoku where you can experience a bit of the Heian life for yourself complete with period costumes, games, and architecture! So whether you’re a history buff or just need a major change of scenery, you’ll want to check out Gosho Yashiro no Mori!

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Located in the outskirts of Awa City in Tokushima Prefecture, Gosho Yashiro no Mori is one of the most idyllic hotels we’ve ever seen. Surrounded by forested mountains and built with the architecture of a traditional Japanese home, Yashiro no Mori is the perfect destination for anyone looking for an escape from modern, daily life.

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As you can see in the photo below, the hotel doesn’t just provide a nice place to stay — they also offer period-appropriate attire, including junihitoe, the traditional, multilayered robes aristocrats once wore. In addition to the various clothing options, the hotel also offers stunning bedrooms, scenery, and gardens as well as performances and Heian Period entertainment.

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▼ We do have to say, we appreciate the modern lights instead of open-flame lamps…

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▼ Imagine waking up and seeing this.

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▼ Best morning jog ever? Yep!

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▼ Enjoy the same performances the aristocracy watched 1,000 years ago.

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To help set the mood, the hotel also apparently has music of traditional flutes playing night and day. You can kind of hear them in this video, but you may need to turn your speakers up, since the music is quite faint.

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The hotel also offers seasonal plans, such as a Chrysanthemum Festival plan, for those looking to really get a taste of life during the Heian Period. There are also traditional fan throwing games, incense smelling, dances, and other activities to be enjoyed.

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Of course, a stay at a specialized hotel like this won’t be inexpensive. A regular room (including two meals for each guest) for two costs 39,500 yen (about US$330) per person per night, and a special room costs 79,000 yen (around $660) per person per night. The various kimono options allow you to wear the outfit of your choice for about two hours. The kouchigi (a two-layer kimono for women) is 5,000 yen (about $40), the junihitoe is 10,000 yen (roughly $85), a karinigu (informal clothes worn by Heian nobility) is 5,000 yen (around $40), and noushi (robes worn by men during the Heian period) are 10,000 yen (about $85).

▼ The various kimono options

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As costly as much of this is, we still can’t help wanting to spend a while week at Yashiro no Mori. Just as soon as we win the lottery!

Hotel Information
Gosho Yashiro no Mori / 御所 社乃森
Address: 71-2 Ochikubo Donarichoumiyagawauchi-aza, Awa-shi, Tokushima-ken
〒771-1508 徳島県阿波市土成町宮川内字落久保71-2
Phone: 088-695-5846
Check-in: 3 p.m.
Check-out: 11 a.m.
Website
Google Maps

Sources: Togech, Gosho Yashiro no Mori, Twitter/@hiyoko0617
Top image: Gosho Yashiro no Mori, Twitter/@hiyoko0617